I live near the Gulf Coast and lately, all you can see is plastic wrapped in trees along the road, floating in our once beautiful Gulf of Mexico, and choking our precious wildlife. It's heartbreaking to witness this slow destruction of our environment. Like many others, I've found myself contributing to the plastic problem because it's convenient and affordable. 

Florida's current ban on plastic bans prevents communities from making environmentally conscious decisions to protect their local ecosystems. This restriction severely handicaps efforts to reduce the alarming amount of plastic waste that harms our coastline every day. Allowing local governments to decide their approach to plastic usage could greatly alleviate the environmental burden we all bear and allow for a wider understanding of the effect plastic has on our communities.

Plastics does not only damage our Gulf but also strain our communities and wildlife. Ecological reports estimate that over 70% of sea turtles have ingested some form of plastic. Our dolphins and seabirds are suffering as well, with many becoming entangled in plastic debris that costs them their lives. Plastic is suffocating Florida and the state refuses to let us do anything about it because they believe it'd be too complicated for the businesses. 

Businesses that have no problem confirming to other states that allow local communities to dictate. They're smart enough to run a business, they're smart enough to adapt to different local policies. Especially when the cost of inaction is not just ecological but financial, too. Tourist economies across Florida rely heavily on the our white sandy beaches and wildlife How long can we maintain this draw if our shores are littered with plastic waste and our wildlife are choking on it? It doesn't sound like a smart business plan, does it?

We urge legislators to allow local communities the autonomy to enact bans and regulations on plastic usage. It's time to give power back to the people who cherish and live in these environments. By lifting the ban on plastic bans, Florida can become a leader in sustainable living and set a powerful example for other states. It'll allow us to write a future for Florida that's brighter and build by us.

So please help us protect the Gulf Coast and all of Florida from the ignorance of this ban for future generations. Sign this petition to appeal Florida's ban on plastic bans and advocate for a cleaner environment today.